Cooler September could boost comps

Wayne, PA — Monthly same-store sales are historically most affected by the weather during September and October, according to a joint research project done by Planalytics, a supply chain planning and optimization technology company, and Citigroup Smith Barney.

Consumer demand for seasonal merchandise this September is expected to climb 12 percent, as Planalytics expects the country to be cooler in most areas compared to last year.

"It's the strongest weather impact in three years," said Scott Bernhardt, svp, Planalytics.

Twenty-three percent of same-store sales in September are affected by the weather, which factors heavily for stores dependant on apparel, said Deborah Weinswig, senior retail analyst, SmithBarney, and a guest speaker during Planalytics' business weather briefing for September.